An ugly brown caterpillar slowly slithers its way up a branch, regarded as disgusting and unknown. However, as time progresses, it emerges from its cocoon, a magnificent butterfly, new, beautiful, and containing the promise of a better future. In Toni Morrison's novel, Beloved, several characters underwent changes both physically and emotionally, but none more drastic than Denver. The most dramatic change occurred in her life; Denver evolved from a solitary and naive girl to an independent and sociable woman. Like the butterfly, she learned to open up to people and take a step of independence to endure what life set out for her.

When Paul D first entered the life of Denver and her mother, Sethe, Denver had a fragile sense of self and her own personality. When Paul D stated that the last time they had met was when Denver was still in the womb, Sethe replied...